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As the season shifts and the air turns crisp, the kitchen transforms into a sanctuary filled with the warm, inviting aromas of autumn. One dish that beautifully captures the essence of this time of year is the scrumptious Apple Cider Chicken Drumsticks. Combining the natural sweetness of apple cider with tender, juicy chicken, this recipe offers a comforting option for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a touch of seasonal delight.

Apple Cider Chicken Drumsticks

Get ready to savor the flavors of autumn with Apple Cider Chicken Drumsticks! This cozy dish combines tender chicken with the natural sweetness of apple cider, creating a delicious meal perfect for family gatherings or weekly dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, including fresh apples and aromatic herbs, you can create a comforting dish that captures the essence of fall. Follow our easy step-by-step guide and enjoy a taste of the season with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

8 chicken drumsticks

1 cup apple cider

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 medium onion, sliced

2 apples, sliced (preferably a mix of sweet and tart)

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It should be hot and ready to roast your chicken perfectly.

      Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, spread the sliced onions evenly over the bottom. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on top of the onions. Pour any remaining marinade over the drumsticks. Scatter the apple slices around the chicken in the dish.

        Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is nicely caramelized. Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through for added flavor and moisture.

          Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

            Serve: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the chicken drumsticks with the roasted onions and apples, drizzling any pan juices over the top for added flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes (includes marinating time) | 4 servings